If you ask me to choose between a barbecue potluck and a formal dinner party, I’d say a barbecue every time. Whether it’s the excuse to load up on barbecue sides, revisit retro barbecue recipes, pick out a ripe watermelon, or just the fact that I can wear shorts and sandals, I’m all in. I grew up in a large family in a perpetual state of controlled chaos. I love that barbecues have a slower pace that includes firing up a charcoal grill and lingering with friends until the fireflies twinkle.

This recipe collection is your go-to guide for all the side dish inspiration you could need for your next cookout or potluck. If you’ve already settled on the meaty barbecue recipes that make you feel like a pitmaster and have your favorite barbecue sauces lined up, we have you covered for the cool pickles, slaws, deviled eggs and baked beans that will round out the spread.

We also include recipes for grilled vegetables, breads, fresh fruit sides and, oh, so many corn and tomato dishes. It’s just not summer without them! The collection is also peppered with make-ahead recipes that get even better with time and are a breeze to pack up and transport. Just set out your dish and then focus on enjoying the other barbecue foods.

Taste of Home